Perplexity Pro gives you access to multiple AI models, but many users stay on the default model without knowing they can switch. The model you choose affects answer quality, speed, and cost. This article explains each available model and shows you how to switch between them in Perplexity Pro.
You will learn the exact steps to change models on desktop and mobile. You will also learn which model works best for different tasks like coding, research, and creative writing. By the end, you can select the right model for every query.
Key Takeaways: How to Switch Models in Perplexity Pro
- Model selector dropdown in the search bar: Click the model name next to the search input to open the dropdown and pick a different model.
- GPT-4o for general tasks: Use the default model for everyday questions, web research, and quick answers.
- Claude 3.5 Sonnet for coding: Switch to this model when you need code generation, debugging, or logic-heavy tasks.
Overview of Models in Perplexity Pro
Perplexity Pro subscribers can choose from several AI models. Each model has different strengths in reasoning, speed, and context handling. The default model is Perplexity’s own model, but you can also select models from OpenAI, Anthropic, and Meta.
The available models include:
- Perplexity Default (Pro Search) — Optimized for web searches with citations. Best for factual questions and research.
- GPT-4o — OpenAI’s multimodal model. Handles text, images, and code. Fast and accurate for general use.
- Claude 3.5 Sonnet — Anthropic’s model. Excels at coding, analysis, and long-form writing.
- Claude 3 Haiku — A lighter Anthropic model. Very fast for simple queries and summaries.
- Llama 3.1 70B — Meta’s open-source model. Good for creative tasks and text generation.
You must have an active Perplexity Pro subscription to access these models. Free users are limited to the default model with fewer Pro search queries per day.
Steps to Switch Models on Desktop
Switching models on the Perplexity website takes just a few clicks. The model selector is located in the search bar area.
- Open Perplexity in your browser
Go to perplexity.ai and sign in to your Pro account. - Locate the model selector
Look at the left side of the search input box. You will see the current model name, such as “Perplexity” or “GPT-4o”. - Click the model name
A dropdown menu opens showing all available models. - Select a new model
Click any model in the list. The search bar updates to show the selected model name. - Type your query and press Enter
Your question will be processed by the chosen model.
The model stays selected for your next search unless you change it again. You can switch models at any time during a conversation.
Steps to Switch Models on Mobile
The Perplexity mobile app for iOS and Android also lets you switch models. The interface is slightly different from the desktop version.
- Open the Perplexity app
Ensure you are logged in to your Pro account. - Tap the search bar
The keyboard and search options appear. - Tap the model name above the keyboard
On iOS, it appears as a small pill-shaped button above the keyboard. On Android, look for the model name near the search input. - Choose a model from the list
A bottom sheet or popup displays all available models. Tap your choice. - Enter your query
The app now uses the selected model for your search.
The mobile app remembers your model preference within a session. Closing the app resets to the default model.
Common Mistakes and Things to Avoid
I switched models but the answer looks the same
Some users do not notice a difference because they ask simple questions. Models differ most on complex tasks like coding, math, or long analysis. Ask a challenging question to see the model’s strength.
The model I want is missing from the list
Perplexity occasionally updates its model lineup. If a model is missing, check your subscription status. Only Pro subscribers see the full list. Free users see only the default model.
Switching models resets the conversation
Each model starts a new thread. If you switch in the middle of a conversation, the previous model’s context is lost. Copy important responses before switching.
Using GPT-4o for every search wastes Pro queries
GPT-4o counts as a Pro search and uses your daily query limit. Use the default model for simple lookups and reserve GPT-4o for complex questions.
| Feature | GPT-4o | Claude 3.5 Sonnet |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | General knowledge, web research, image analysis | Coding, logic, long-form writing, analysis |
| Speed | Fast | Moderate |
| Context window | 128K tokens | 200K tokens |
| Pro search cost | Uses one Pro query per search | Uses one Pro query per search |
| Multimodal | Yes (text and images) | Text only (image upload supported) |
Switching models in Perplexity Pro is a simple way to get better answers for specific tasks. Use GPT-4o for fast web research and Claude 3.5 Sonnet for coding or deep analysis. Try the model selector on your next complex query to see the difference in response quality.